Payroll Analyst

Our client is seeking a detail‑oriented Payroll Analyst to provide payroll expertise and support the accurate, compliant, and timely processing of payroll operations. This role serves as a key resource for payroll‑related programs, compliance initiatives, process improvements, and cross‑functional collaboration with departments including Human Resources, Legal, and Accounting. The ideal candidate will bring strong analytical skills, advanced Excel capabilities, and a commitment to operational excellence.

Location: Bellevue, WA
Workspace: Hybrid – 3 days onsite per week (potentially 100% onsite during training)
Job Type: Contract
Compensation: $40–$45/hour

• Manage payroll programs to ensure accurate employee payments and payroll reporting.
• Coordinate payroll tax administration, garnishments, and general payroll operations while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Troubleshoot payroll issues, support escalations, and provide subject matter expertise to internal stakeholders.
• Lead and participate in payroll‑related projects, including timeline management, testing, implementation, and validation of system changes.
• Identify and implement process improvements, standardization efforts, and automation opportunities to improve payroll accuracy and efficiency.
• Partner with Human Resources, Accounting, Legal, and other internal teams to resolve payroll‑related concerns and support compliance initiatives.
• Analyze payroll data and trends to provide recommendations and support informed business decisions.
• Utilize advanced Excel functions and reporting tools to manage and interpret large data sets.
• Support system integrations and reporting processes related to payroll and HR operations.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree and 2+ years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong problem‑solving and critical‑thinking skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex payroll information clearly and concisely.
• Strong customer service and consulting skills with a focus on supporting internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience applying analytical reasoning and root‑cause analysis to identify and resolve payroll issues.
• Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including Pivot Tables, VLOOKUPs, and complex formulas.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze large volumes of data and make data‑driven recommendations.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to follow through on priorities and deadlines.
• Project or process management experience.

• 4+ years of progressive payroll experience.
• Experience supporting HR systems, payroll applications, reporting tools, and system integrations.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification.
• Experience driving payroll process improvements and automation initiatives.

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Company 401(k) retirement plan.

Vaco by Highspring is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, religion or creed, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, status as a veteran, union membership, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, political affiliation, or any other protected characteristics as required by federal, state or local law.

If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact